Liposuction of the Thighs

If you are a curvy woman or have a pear-shaped figure, you may be interested in slimming down your thighs. Many people with fuller body types have tried unsuccessfully to lose weight with diet and exercise. However, the excess fat in this area is often stubborn, hormonal tissue that is not particularly responsive to calorie restriction and working out. Large, plump legs can be very beautiful, but if the size of your thighs is something that makes you feel self conscious about your appearance, liposuction may be a great option. If you are a healthy person, liposuction of the anterior, inner, or outer thigh can produce excellent results. Some studies even suggest that liposuction improves overall health by lowering triglyceride levels in the patient’s blood.

There are various techniques used by plastic surgeons to strategically remove fat and provide a more balanced appearance. These include: Suction-assisted liposuction (SAL, which is the most standard method), ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), external ultrasound-assisted liposuction (EUAL), power-assisted liposuction (PAL), twin cannula liposuction (TCL), water-assisted liposuction (WAL), the tumescent technique, and laser-assisted liposuction. Lasers, ultrasound vibrations, and water are often used in combination with the suction to loosen fat and make it easier to remove. 

When consulting potential surgeons, it would be best to ask them to go into detail about the method they think would be best for sculpting your thighs. You should also ask him or her whether you would need general anesthesia, or localized anesthesia with sedation, since both are possible with liposuction of the thighs.

One thing to consider when seeking liposuction of the thighs is the look you are trying to achieve. If you want a slimmer silhouette, removing fat from your outer thighs will probably work best. If you are more frustrated by your thighs touching one another when you walk, you will probably need to concentrate on you inner thighs. However, it is conceivable you will want both.

Prior to undergoing liposuction surgery, you should have lost all the weight you need in order to be optimally healthy before you pursue liposuction. Even in areas like the thighs that are particularly stubborn for women, it is possible for your weight to fluctuate.  Gaining or losing weight after a procedure can affect the results and lead to cellulite-like lumpiness. Also be aware that if you suffer from chronic illnesses that prevent you from healing well, like diabetes, you may not be a good candidate for cosmetic surgery.

Scarring after liposuction surgery is minimal. Tiny incisions are made in the treatment areal these fade significantly in the months after surgery. 

The vast majority of insurance companies do not cover liposuction, as it is considered a cosmetic treatment. Patients should be prepared to cover the cost of surgery out-of-pocket. The procedure can cost anywhere between $1,600 and $5,000 per area. Obtain an accurate price quote prior to surgery, and determine how you will pay for treatment. Cash, checks, and personal credit cards are all options. Many patients decide to get health care financing from CareCredit so they can pay off the cost of treatment in smaller increments.

To schedule a liposuction consultation, contact Jefferson Plastic Surgery today.